Research and analysis

The role of transport in tackling loneliness

Aims to establish evidence on the relationship between loneliness and transport.

• From: Department for Transport
• Published: 26 September 2024

Documents

Quantifying the relationship between loneliness and transport

PDF, 1.18 MB, 51 pages

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Quantifying the relationship between loneliness and transport: data tables

MS Excel Spreadsheet, 5.7 MB

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Details

This report presents findings from a research programme examining the relationships between loneliness, social connections and transport access and use. It uses surveys and qualitative methods in phase 1 and an extensive survey with statistical analysis in phase 2.

The research found that loneliness, defined by participants as involving the quality and quantity of social connections, was more prevalent among:

• younger people
• people with health conditions
• people living alone
• people living in social housing
• people with lower educational attainment

The findings reveal that loneliness is influenced by various factors. The report explains that while using public transport can help those with minor health issues feel less lonely, it doesn’t impact those with severe health conditions. Nevertheless, people see transport as crucial for maintaining social connections and preventing isolation.

This report aims to establish evidence on the relationship between loneliness and transport to inform future policy development.

Published 26 September 2024